Gulf Coach Delia Pass
Longtime West Coast trainer and former jockey William ‘Bill’ Delia passed away on Thursday from complications from COVID-19. He was 75 years old.
Born on December 5, 1946, he started his apprenticeship as a jockey in 1966. After a racing career in which he drove for 304 winners, Delia turned to training. Starting in 1985, his career spanned more than 4 decades, winning 975 races from 7,952 starters, with the runner-up accumulating a wallet income of $16,735,424.
The Bay Area Native was honored with the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) Best Trainer Award in 2019.
Delia’s final winner came at Golden Gate Fields on December 10 with the goal of Hands Off. His last two starters ran last Friday, January 21.
“As you can imagine, our racing family here at Golden Gate is heartbroken,” said Golden Gate Fields General Manager David Duggan. “He’s a guy you look forward to seeing every morning. He is a hard worker who loves horses and racing. He has great stories to share and a great sense of humour. With the news of Bill’s passing, a shadow fell over our backs this morning. “
Jockey William Antongeorgi III, who has been riding for Delia in recent years, posted on social media on Thursday night.
Antongeorgi said: “He is not only great to ride… but also a great man to be with. “[Delia was] always smiling and having a good time. This is so painful. I will miss you.”
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This story was posted in Top News and tagged california race, COVID-19, David Duggan, Golden Gate Field, obituary, coach, William ‘Bill’ Delia, William Antongeorgi III.